The canopy of a southern oak tree shades the ground underneath it creating a dry and dim area where most plants find it difficult to live. The same rule that goes for soil goes for mulchdont cover the base of the tree trunk. Mixed Hostas Around A Tree In A Less Organized Presentation Description From Pinterest Backyard Landscaping Landscaping Around House Landscaping Around Trees See more ideas about plants shade garden garden. Ground cover under oak trees . Spread 1 to 2 inches of good quality garden soil over the area along with 2 inches of compost. Or you could maintain a 2 to 4 layer of bark mulch that extends out to the trees dripline edge of the leaf canopy above. Others are Asian jasmine and liriope. If your garden receives light shade or partial shade perhaps receiving sunlight for two or three hours in early morning or late evening. The only type of plants you can consider for landscaping beneath oaks are plant species that do not need water or fertilizer in summe...